**COFEPRIS Approves Commercialization of Vaccine for mpox**
The Federal Commission for Protection against Health Risks (COFEPRIS) has given the green light for the commercialization of the Jynneos vaccine, specifically designed to combat mpox (formerly known as monkeypox or simian smallpox). This approval was announced on September 12, 2024, following an extensive regulatory support process with the manufacturer, Bavarian Nordic.
COFEPRIS stated, “A multidisciplinary team conducted a thorough analysis of the scientific evidence presented by Bavarian Nordic and concluded that the vaccine meets the necessary quality, safety, and efficacy requirements to grant a sanitary registration for its commercialization in Mexico.”
The vaccine is intended exclusively for adults over 18 who are at high risk of exposure to the virus. It is not recommended for use in the general population, including children, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers. COFEPRIS emphasizes that the vaccine should be administered under medical supervision and not randomly, as indiscriminate use poses health risks. Any adverse events suspected to be related to the vaccination can be reported via email at [email protected].
The National Committee for Epidemiological Surveillance (CONAVE) issued a notification on August 14, 2024, about an mpox outbreak in Mexico, following an international alert from the World Health Organization (WHO). Medical units nationwide are instructed to monitor and report potential cases to curb the spread of the virus and provide necessary medical care to those infected.
In Mexico, from January 1 to August 3, 2024, 212 probable mpox cases were reported, with 49 confirmed across 11 states. So far, all detected cases belong to clade II, with no presence of the clade 1b variant reported.
The Federal Ministry of Health describes mpox as having two clinical phases. The first phase, lasting five days, involves fever, severe headache, swollen lymph nodes, lower back pain, muscle aches, and lethargy. The second phase involves the appearance of small blisters, starting one to three days after the onset of fever, often first appearing on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body.
Preventive recommendations include frequent hand washing with soap or alcohol hand sanitizer, covering the mouth and nose with the elbow when coughing or sneezing, avoiding sharing food, drinks, utensils, and plates, wearing medical masks, and cleaning and disinfecting areas where an infected person has been. In case of symptoms, seeking medical attention and avoiding contact with others is advised.
For suspicion of infection and need for medical consultation, individuals can contact 5519469772 or email [email protected].
**Secondary Article: WHO Raises Alarm on mpox Outbreaks in Various Regions**
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global warning regarding the spread of mpox, following significant outbreaks in multiple regions, particularly in Africa where a more contagious clade I variant is prevalent. Countries in the Americas, Europe, and Asia are advised to heighten surveillance and preparedness to prevent the introduction and spread of this variant.
WHO’s latest reports indicate several confirmed cases in highly populated urban areas, underscoring the need for international cooperation in monitoring and controlling the disease. They recommend that countries ramp up diagnostic capabilities, stockpile vaccines, and educate the public on prevention and symptom recognition.
The organization points out that mpox is a zoonotic virus with the potential for human-to-human transmission. Increased interactions between humans and animal reservoirs in certain regions contribute to higher infection rates. WHO also emphasizes the importance of coordinated efforts in research, including the development of improved vaccines and treatments.
For updated information and guidelines on mpox, health authorities and the public are encouraged to regularly consult WHO’s official communications and resources.